Millions of Americans are
facing hot, humid temperatures
At the beginning of summer.
In the Midwest and Northeast regions, more than 40 million Americans found themselves under extreme heat alerts on June 20. Certain areas might experience temperatures soaring above 100 degrees along with significant moisture levels. Both New York and Washington, D.C., may endure readings exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit persistently for as long as seven days.
For
people with air-conditioning
, window units and central air systems will be running non-stop for days. Even though ensuring safety and maintaining coolness is crucial, individuals must also
balance their bills
.
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Below are some suggestions for effectively cooling your home as summer heat begins.
What is the optimal temperature to adjust your air conditioner?
The
The U.S. Department of Energy suggests
keeping temperatures inside comfortable and at a level that controls for humidity. People should also try to lower the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures to help save money.
Energy Star
The EPA’s initiative aimed at enhancing energy efficiency suggests adjusting your air conditioner to 78 degrees upon waking for optimal comfort and performance. Various utility providers, including those within, support this recommendation.
Missouri
,
Maryland
and
Florida
I suggest setting your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months.
However, few Americans adhere to this guideline.
According to a Consumer Reports survey conducted in 2021, individuals using central air conditioning typically maintained an average temperature of 72 degrees. None of the participants opted for settings above 76 degrees.
Ideally, when outdoor temperatures decrease during sleep, individuals can increase their thermostat settings by 4 degrees warmer.
Programmable thermostats have the capability to manage these temperature settings, as stated by Energy Star. Additionally, positioning thermostats away from zones that experience direct cooling or heating effects—such as windows where air conditioners might absorb sunlight—can aid in maintaining balanced temperatures.
What happens when I am not around?
The Department of Energy states that maintaining a higher temperature at home even when you’re not around can prevent wasteful energy consumption.
The Energy Star program suggests adjusting your thermostat 7 degrees higher when you’re not at home. Changing the temperature by 7 to 10 degrees for roughly eight hours daily could result in saving up to 10 percent per year on heating and cooling expenses, according to the Department of Energy.
Alternative methods to keep cool
- According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, windows generate considerable unnecessary heat. Consider installing window curtains.
- Inspect and plug air leaks around baseboards, windows, doors, and light fixtures using suitable caulk or weatherstripping.
- Reduce the use of devices that generate heat such as stoves or ovens.
- Supporters should aid in circulating air; however, avoid relying solely on them for cooling purposes. They might create an illusion of relief through warm or moist airflow without actually lowering your body temperature or avoiding heat-induced ailments. Remember to switch off ceiling fans whenever you vacate a room.
Climate and AC
A growing number of individuals in the nation are utilizing air conditioners.
EPA data suggests
That’s partly because we’re having more hot days as a result of the increasing temperature caused by climate change.
Contributors: Jeanine Santucci and Greta Cross from USA TODAY; Steven Howe from Rochester Democrat and Chronicle;
Jordan Green from Memphis Commercial Appeal; Greg Giesen from Delaware News Journal; and Manahil Ahmad from The Bergen Record.
The article initially appeared on USA TODAY:
At what setting should you configure your thermostat when enduring a summertime heatwave?